Planning
your loved ones who have passed on
89 remembering
nice ways to remember them
you choose a wedding date yet?
92 did
there are many things to consider before you set the date
94 getting organized

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your wedding papers pile up

Real Weddings & Engagements
97 real weddings and engagements

editor’s note
Welcome to our third issue!
We are excited to welcome our beauty contributor, Stefanie Savino, and our
style contributor, Jeannine Comito!
Summer has come to an end, but we can’t wait for all the colors of fall! We
have so many exciting things to come and wonderful events to attend. Keep
checking out our website for updates.
Issue three has been so much fun putting together. So many great vendors
we had the chance to work with. There is something for everyone in this issue.
Remember, if you have suggestions, questions, or just want to say hi contact
us. it’s about details exists for you and because of you.
Hearts Always,
Jason and Heather

*Choose and order groomsmen attire.
*Choose and order grooms attire.
*Research and choose a rehearsal dinner site.
*Choose and reserve all tables, chairs, and any other wedding rentals.
*Make all your honeymoon reservations-airfare, hotel for your
wedding night.
*Put together hotel and city information for out-of-town guests.

*Call guests who have not RSVPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d and make seating arrangements.
*Confirm all details with your reception site.
*Give guest count & confirm all details with your caterer and baker
*Determine your receiving line.
*Confirm all details with vendors etc.
*Pack for your wedding night and honeymoon.
*Put final payments and tips for vendors in marked envelopes.

*Tell your parents how much you love them and thank them.
*Set aside time after your ceremony to have a private moment together.

Your *Enjoy your Wedding Day!
Wedding
Day!

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details

Q

A
&

Q- Is it ok not to allow single guests
to bring a date? We really don’t
have room in our budget.
A- It’s always nice to allow single
wedding guests to bring a date.
However, you are not required to
allow dates. If you have guests that
have been in long-term committed
relationships (engaged, living together) then allow them to bring their
partner. For your other single guests
don’t allow them to bring a date. If
anyone asks, just explain your
situation.

Fall in love with
the colors of fall!

“Brunt oranges and browns are great
colors for the fall. Be comfortable
with a knit dress, high brown boots,
and a great clutch. Stylish and simple!”

-Heather Kimble
Editor in Chief

1

Fit & Flare Double Knit Dress

2

Bugle Beaded Clutch

www.forever21.com

www.forever21.com

Q- My mother passed away and my
father never remarried. He’s paying
for our wedding. How do I word
the invitation?

3

A-So sorry for the loss of your
mother. This invitation should read:

4

Gone with the Wind Inspired Cake

5

Strappy Slouch Boot

Mr. (your fathers full name)
requests the honour of your presence
at the marriage of his daughter
(your full name)
to
Mr. (fiance’s full name)

If you would like to have your questions answered,
please send them to info@itsaboutdetails.com.

10 it’s about details - issue 3

Self-Standing Paper Goodie Bag

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

www.pieceacake.com

www.victoriassecret.com

the hotlist
2
1

3

4
5

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 11

date night

A weekend
getaway at
the beach!

One alternative to having a date
night is to put some time aside for a
little beach time getaway. It can be
a weekend, or an overnight during
the week, it can even be a night in
the off season, or a day trip. Going
somewhere with a fun boardwalk is
a great way to spend a day with your
special someone. Boardwalks are
often full of fun attractions, great
food, and fun games. Sometimes
it can be fun to let your inner child
shine through.
issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 13

Play boardwalk games,
eat funnel cake and
cotton
candy,
or enjoy
the rides.

14 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

Whatever you do,
enjoy yourself
and make the most of it!

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 15

style & beauty

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 17

Playful eye shadow

by Stefanie Savino of
Bella Rococo Hair & Makeup Artistry

As a professional makeup artist, I have the honor and pleasure working with numerous
brides and bridal parties. My number one rule for the overall look for the bride is to keep it
timeless! The makeup and hair should never take over the bride, but enhance her
natural beauty. So, when you look at your wedding album years later you
will never know what year you got married based on your hair and
makeup!
So many brides say, “Oh I can’t have a smokey eye on

my wedding day!” or “I can’t wear that color
eyeshadow!’’ and today is the day to throw out those

misconceptions and rule book right out the
window! Bridal makeup
doesn’t have to be matte
and neutral colors anymore.
You can incorporate color
in a new and modern
way, while still keeping
the look timeless and
flawless!
There are countless ways of
applying a smokey eye.
Matte grays and dark browns
are perfect and won’t look as
harsh as black eye
shadow sometimes
does. Remember less
is more. This is your
wedding day not your
bachelorette party. You can
add the drama of a smokey eye to
your look by adding the matte gray
or brown in the crease of your eye and
lining underneath your lash line. This
will still keep the look elegant, but
glamorous. Nars Coconut Grove is a
gorgeous matte deep brown color or
MAC Contrast which is a pretty gray.

18 it’s about details - issue 3

Chocolate browns with amber and gold accents
are a beautiful combination. Especially for fall
brides! Rather than keeping the eye plain with a
nude or white lid, you can incorporate a splash
of color and shine with accent color on the lid in
ambers, light copper and gold. This will really
make your eyes stand out and will really bring
out the eye color for brown eyed and blue eyed
brides. MAC makes a beautiful shade in Amber
lights and Nars in Half Baked and X. You could
also incorporate a highlight brow color and on
the inner corner of your eyes with a champagne/
silver or gold shimmer to complete this look!
There are so many different tones in the purple
family. You will definitely find one that
compliments your eye color and skin tone. I
often do an eye application with mauve, taupe,
and soft baby pinks to give the bride a different take on bridal makeup and they love it! The
mauve and taupe are good in either a matte or
shimmer shadow, just remember you will want a
matte shade for your crease area. Some favorites
include Laura Mercier Plum Smoke and Rose
and MAC Satin Taupe.
Olive green is a gorgeous color. It is often a color
that is overlooked for eye shadow, but when
applied, it brings out your eye color and makes
your eyes pop! You can use this color all year
round and it looks amazing on most skin tones.
You can use this color as a crease color or
incorporate as a liner. This color always looks
pretty with a light gold shimmer or nude/gold
highlight brow color. A really pretty olive green
eye shadow color is MAC Juxt or Greensmoke.
Gone are the days of basic makeup applications for brides! Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
bride has a variety of products to choose from that will enhance her
beauty and make her look breathtaking! When booking your bridal
makeup trial think about the way you want to look and talk to your
makeup artist about different color options that will highlight your
features and enhance them. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to try something new,
because with one swipe of a makeup remover wipe you can change the
look and start all over again!

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 19

“Offer the customer the best possible service, selection, quality and value”

20 it’s about details - issue 3

dressing at

Sue Wong,
Nicole Miller, T
adashi
Shoji and BCB
G are some of
the big bridal n
ames you
The gowns range
will find.
in price from $200 - $2,000;
you are bound to find what you
by Jeannine Comito
are looking for.

Nordstrom’s

“O

ffer the customer the best possible service, selection, quality and value”, that was
the philosophy back in 1901 when the first Nordstrom’s was opened by John W.
Nordstrom. It was, however, not called Nordstrom’s at that time, the store went
by Wallin & Nordstrom and was a small, independent shoe store owned and operated by John
W. Nordstrom and Carl Wallin. Over a hundred years later, the store has been passed down
generation to generation, has enhanced the selection (for the whole family) of offerings but
still demonstrates the same philosophy.
This year, the well known department store opened a boutique within the walls of their store.

The Wedding Suite was created to “offer
the customer the best possible service,
selection, quality and value” for the
wedding day.
These boutiques are only offered at select Nordstrom’s across the
country, you can call 1.888.300.1295 or log onto
www.nordstroms.com to find a location near you.

issue 3 - it’s about details 21

Having the opportunity to visit the location in King
of Prussia, Pennsylvania, I had a wonderful
experience. From the moment I walked through
the door, I was shown great service. First, I was
greeted by one of the stylist that works in the
boutique (this particular shop had 3 and a
manager) and then I was welcomed into the back
where the bridal suites are. The bridal suites are
the dressing rooms for the brides and bridal party;
however this room was not your typical dressing
room. It was decorated with accessories, pictures,
a sofa, coffee table and a great three tier mirror.
There were three dressing rooms, one for each
stylist to use for their clients. The sofa, I think, is a
great add for a warm feel for anyone accompanying
the bride. This suite is truly a one stop shop for a
bride, bridesmaid or mother of the bride.

The well-educated
(on bridal fashion)
stylist will assist the
customer with all of
their wedding needs.

If you cannot find what you need within the
boutique (but it’s offered at Nordstrom’s) they will
go and locate it for you.

22 it’s about details - issue 3

In what would be considered the store front, the
boutique has the all of the gowns and accessories
on display. Each angle of the room was decorated
with such detail and gave off character. All of the
gowns they offer are on display (one dress per style,
size). The dresses are bought off the rack; they have
back stock so that each client is taking home a new
gown. Sue Wong, Nicole Miller, Tadashi Shoji and
BCBG are some of the big bridal names you will
find. The gowns range in price from $200 - $2,000;
you are bound to find what you are looking for.

When at the boutique, I had the opportunity to meet with a
bride and her future mother in law. Jenny, the future bride,
had a wonderful story to tell. She was just recently engaged
to Brian and planning to have three weddings! Her first
was taking place on August 6, 2011. She needed her entire
wedding ensemble and she needed it fast. She and Lynn,
her future mother in law began their day at 12:30pm in the
mall, with the last stop being Nordstrom’s New Wedding
Suites. According to Lynn, they had,

“extraordinary service”
from the time they walked in. Jenny was first looking at
short gowns for her first wedding, but then decided she felt
more like a bride in a long one; which was her final choice.

Being from China, Jenny was not
aware of some of the American
bridal traditions such as the groom
not seeing the gown before the
wedding. Thinking this was funny,
Jenny was not going to honor the
tradition, until she put the gown on
and felt different, she looked at Lynn
and said,

“He’s not seeing
me in this until
the wedding”
Jenny picked her gown out on a
Saturday, was coming back to pick it
up on the next Wednesday and then
getting married on Saturday, now
that is full service.

issue 3 - it’s about details 23

Brian & Jenny Shevory

24 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

Congratulations

August 6th, 2011

and Best Wishes!

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 25

Boudoir Style
G

photography by Becki B Photography

etting closer to the wedding day and still haven’t picked out a gift for your groom?
Looking for something that is unique and intimate that only you can give your
husband-to-be? Here is an idea that is quickly becoming all the rage. Boudoir
photo shoots are a great gift that can be fun for both the bride and groom. When
done with the right photographer and in the right setting, you can make this day less of a chore
and more of a relaxing time. Another thing that can make this even more unique is to “theme”
your shoot after something you both like. Here are a few ideas.

26 it’s about details - issue 3

Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best
not to mess with
tradition. Classic
lingerie and poses
are still more than
enough to make
this gift the intimate
surprise you are
hoping to achieve.

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 27

One of the more
famous images
in the world is
that of the pin
up girl from
the 1940’s and
1950’s. This fun
and sexy look
can be easily
duplicated.

Photography by:
Becki B Photography

Models:
Julie Kauffman
Emily Coombes
Alina Gidjilova

28 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 29

30 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

photography by Becki B Photography

Sometimes there is nothing
more exciting to a man then
seeing his future wife wearing
one of his shirts, tie, and hat.
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playful, fun, and sexy all
rolled up into one.

1. Never worry about the “dating scene” again!
2. Changing your Facebook relationship status to “Married”!
3. Always having someone to wake up to!
4. Always having a dance partner!
5. Life long companionship!

Chang
your F ing
relatio acebook
nship s
t
“Marri atus to
ed”!

6. Having a 24/7 best friend!
7. Your husband/wife knows everything about you and loves you anyway!
8. You don’t need to worry about how you look when you wake up in the moring!
9. Being a “WE” and “US”!
10. Married make up sex!
11. Tax breaks!
12. Living longer!

Have your guests write a wish and place
it in this great pair jar. After the
wedding use it as a cookie jar!

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 39

Modern Decorative Birdcage with Birds in Flight

Have your guests write a wish and place it in this beautiful bridcage. It will also double as
beautiful ceremony and reception decor.

40 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

Wooden Memory Note Box

Have your guests write a wish and tuck it away in this goreous wooden box. Keep this wooden
box out in your home after the wedding and read the wishes your guests wrote throughout your
many years of marriage.
www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

find these diy favors and more at
www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

Miniature Funky Felt Gift Bags

Mini Flower Pots
issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 45

forgotten details

Unity Ceremonies
A

Red
Rose
Ceremony
The rose ceremony involves the combining of two small vases of
roses into a larger vase showing the symbolic joining of the two
families. The roses are taken from the smaller vases by the bride
and groom as a symbol of each of the families. Red roses may
be used to symbolize the love that the two families are sharing.
46 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

wedding day is a symbolic of the joining of two
families and becoming one. It marks the beginning
of a journey that the couple and their families will
be taking part of going forward. During the ceremony, there are a
variety of ways to hallmark this
special event. Here are just a few
ways that you can do that.

Unity Candle Ceremony
The unity candle is the most common way to symbolize the joining of families. It starts with two
candles placed on either side of a larger unlit candle. Traditionally, the mother of the bride and
the mother of the groom go forward during the ceremony and light the two smaller candles. On
some cases, the candles are lit prior to the ceremony. This becomes a personal preference. Once
the smaller candles are lit, the bride and groom take the smaller candles and together light the
large candle to symbolize the joining of two families.

And
the two
become
one.

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 47

48 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

Unity Sand Ceremony
The sand ceremony is
another variation of
the theme of the
joining of families.
For this ceremony, all
you need is the two
small jars or vases with
sand and one larger
empty vase. The idea
here is that the bride
and groom pour the
sand into the larger
vase showing the
combining of two
families into one. One
variation of this is to
use two different
colored sands to make
the mixing more
obvious.

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 49

wedding related events

Bridal
Shower
Basics

52 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 53

When should
the bridal
shower be?

It shouldn’t be held to early.
Allow the couple time to
figure out what they need
and after they have hammered out a lot of their
wedding plans. About 12-4
weeks before the wedding
day is ideal. The bridal
shower can be held Sunday
through Saturday, which
ever day is most convenient
for the bride.

Who can host it?

It’s always
nice to have small
favors for bridal
showers guests.

Have a
pen a paper for a
bridesmaid (usually
the MOH) to keep track
of what presents each
guests gave.

54 it’s about details - issue 3

Just about anyone can host the
bridal shower! Close friends, the
brides mother, bridesmaids,
family, and the brides future
in-laws. The only people who
should not host the bridal shower
are the bride or the groom.

Should the
bridal shower be
formal? Casual?

It should really reflect the bride’s
personality and what she enjoys.
Have it at a nice restaurant, at a
park, a museum, or keep it nice
and low key at someone’s home.
The possibilities are basically
endless!

What foods should
be served?

The food should coordinate with the type of bridal
shower you are having. If it will be held at someone’s home serve salad, finger sandwiches, fruits,
and simple desserts. If it’s at a restaurant or hall
discuss menu options with their onsite event
coordinator.

What kind of entertainment
should there be?

It’s all about having fun, eating, and opening
presents. Have music playing in the background,
play some games, and socialize. If there are games
make sure there are prizes too!

Who gets invited?

Close friends, bridesmaids, flower girls, and family
members. Try to keep the bridal shower more on
the intimate side. Ask the bride for a guest list or if
it’s a surprise talk to her mom, sister, or the groom.
Anyone who is invited to the bridal shower should
be invited to the wedding! But you are not required
to invite everyone to the bridal shower who is
invited to the wedding.

What type of invitations
should be sent?

The invitations should match the overall style and
theme of the bridal shower. Mail the
invitations about 4-6 weeks prior to the bridal
shower. Make sure to include a name and number
for guests to RSVP to. Don’t forget to include the
couples registry informoation!

issue 3 - it’s about details 55

venue spotlight

SPIRIT

OF PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia, Pa

“The Spirit of Philadelphia
is a fun and unique venue on
the Delaware River that is
sure to wow your guests!”

56 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 57

58 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

I

f you are looking for a unique venue, the Spirit of Philadelphia
just might be the answer. This boat serves as a fully functional
restaurant has been operating dinner cruises from its port of
the Delaware River in Philadelphia for the last 25 years. Not
only is it a “floating” restaurant, it’s also available for private events
such as weddings. With three full interior decks, the Spirit of Philadelphia can accommodate a variety of party sizes. Each deck features 360
degree panoramic views of the waterfront. There are also two dance
floors with full scale lighting to keep the party hopping. The Spirit
of Philadelphia also has a beautiful observation deck ceremony space
overlooking the Delaware River that is converted into a lounge immediately following the ceremony.
The best part is you don’t have to be from the Philly region to experience the fun and excitement of the Spirit of Philadelphia for yourself.
The Spirit of Philadelphia is an Entertainment Cruises Company which
owns and operates dinner cruises in Baltimore, Boston, Chicago,
National Harbor MD, New Jersey, New York, Norfolk, and Washington
DC. All of the ships are unique and have a product to go along with it
– you can have an elegant sit down dinner with a jazz band aboard the
Odyssey Chicago or a fun and festive party aboard the Spirit of Boston.
There are tons of options for a bride in any of our cities!

issue 3 - it’s about details 59

food & pastry

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 61

have YOUR cake!
by Nicholas Clare of N Clare

A

s a pastry chef, I am often asked by brides-to-be
“Chef, what kind of cake should I get for my
wedding?”. Personally, the answer should always be
“whatever kind of cake YOU want”, but obviously
people like to be guided in the right direction. Now,
with the media throwing so many ideas our way with
royal weddings, cupcake battles, and cake masters all
over the television many people are overwhelmed with
designs. We have created a simple quiz for you to take
and evaluate your situation to help guide you in the
right direction.
Obviously, these results may not always apply. You
should always follow your heart on what you want. But,
if you are going for an overall match on your theme and
personalities, this is a good guide to get you started.
Good luck!

Custom designed crazy cake!
You are most likely planning a laid back, fun,
non-traditional wedding. Why not have a
cake to match the personalities! Show all your
friends and family how much fun you like to
have! People will be talking about this reception
for years to come.

www.bredenbecks.com

5-10pts

11-18 pts

19-25 pts
Traditional style wedding cake!
You have decided to have the classiest wedding
and reception of the year. You are a prince and
princess for the day, so have a cake to match.
Classic white with silver decoration and fine
piped decoration will surely wow all of your
guests. You will feel like royalty when you make
that first cut.

www.sweetelizabethscakes.com

You clearly like to have fun, but want to keep
some elegance and style to your reception.
What a better way than doing a nice cupcake
tower? Both the bride and groom can design
fun styled cupcakes while keeping it with a
traditional feel.

www.nclare.com

Cupcakes or other desserts!

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 65

ceremony & reception

great color combos
Chocolate and Deep Sky Blue are fun
and youthful colors. Great for a laid
back and nature inspired wedding
Chocolate Deep Sky
Blue

Eggplant and Cerise are beautiful
nontradional colors for a fall or
winter wedding.
Eggplant Cerise

Pumpkin and Fern Green are perfect
for a wedding around Halloween or
Thnaksgiving.
Pumpkin

Fern
Green

66 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

www.nclare.com
Located in the suburbs of Philly, N Clare is the
up-and-coming custom cake shop in the area.
Owned and operated by Nicholas Clare, he has
been working with custom cakes for over 2 years.

let your wedding
represent you both
as a couple
she likes:

he likes:

flowers (but sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allergic)

sports (especially the Phillies)

the color pink

great food

traveling around the world

beer

A

wedding is the joining of two people. It is the coming together
of two families and two backgrounds to form one. The same
can be said for the wedding day itself. Combining the likes and hobbies of
the bride and the groom can sometimes be a challenge.

Allergic to flowers,
but love them? Paper
flowers are a great and
beautiful option. And
they will last forver!
Use the brideâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
favorite color in the
details of the wedding.
issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 71

The groom LOVES
food, like most
grooms do. Find a
restaurant that has
delicious food
options and style
for the wedding
reception.

Use his
favorite teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
colors in the
wedding cake or
cupcakes.

72 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

The bride’s
love of travel can
be used throughout
the invitations and
other stationery.

Incorporate the
groom’s love of sports
and beer in the favors.
Sports beer cups are a
great option.
issue 3 - it’s about details 73

74 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 75

76 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

N

A farmers
market
wedding

ot every wedding has to be over-the-top glam or Hollywood style. An
alternative for those with a simpler taste is the idea of a farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market
inspired wedding. Taking the best parts of the simple country styles and
the fresh produce/products at a farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market and making your event still come
across with the air of sophistication that comes with a wedding is all part of the fun.

Instead of a
fancy full ball gown
or a tux, this type of event
is a little more laid back. A
simple short dress for the bride
or a pair of khakiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and a button
down on the groom is just the
right amount of casual meets
refined to make your
wedding look great.

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 81

Taking in the feeling of a farmers market can seem like a daunting and unreal task. Farmers
markets may not seem like the most ideal setting for a wedding. Farmers markets are filled with
a diverse amount of products and clientele. However, there are lots of fun things that one can
find in the farmers market. Fresh baked goods, fresh produce, lemonade, honey, and much
more can all be put together to make a great dessert bar or drink bar. The best part about doing a
wedding like this is that most places throughout the country have some kind of farmer’s market
to get all the things you need.
To pull the whole style together, it’s best to have your wedding outside in an open park with a
nice backdrop. Instead of a fancy table set up with linens or things that are all the glam, you can
have a more basic set up on a picnic bench. Use nature to help put together your centerpiece and
to help “decorate” your “venue.” The beauty of nature at its finest is sometimes better than anything that can be manufactured. Take advantage of your natural world and have a beautiful and
amazing day.

82 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 83

84 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

Fresh b
aked
goods,
fresh
produc
e, lemo
nade,
honey,
and mu
more! ch

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 85

86 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 87

planning

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

Remembering
your loved ones who
have passed on

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 89

O

ne of the things that can be
hard for a couple when they
get married is dealing with
the fact that loved ones who
have passed on before are unable to be a
part of the ceremony. Whether it be an
aunt or uncle, a grandparent, or maybe
even a parent who has been lost, it can
be hard for the couple. Many times at
the wedding, the bride and groom want
to memorialize the passing of loved ones
who could not be present. This can help
make the day even more special.

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

90 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

There are a variety of ways that the couple
can memorialize the lost love ones. Many
couples like to use floral displays, a single
candle, a poem, or single rose to mark the
lost love one. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always a nice touch to
add the loved one to the program. Another touching tribute can be a photo collage showing the lost loved one, especially
pictures that feature the bride and groom
with the loved one.
No matter what method the bride and
groom choose, it is more about the sentiment. Sharing the memory of a lost loved
one can be both therapeutic and heartwarming not only for the married couple,
but for the guests as well. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important
to make the memories last and keep them
close to your heart.

www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 91

Did you choose a wedding

S

ometimes choosing a wedding date
can seem complicated. If you take
it step by step, choosing your date may
become less stressful.
The first step in to choose a season. There are pros and cons to each season.
Spring: Spring is dubbed the wedding season by wedding
professionals. Spring colors are bright and cheery. Many flowers are in
full bloom and you have the most options to choose from. The down
side to spring weddings is that they are the most popular. Vendors
book their dates quickly so you have to start planning early.

Summer: Summer is a popular season for weddings, especially

destination and beach weddings. You have the option of having your
entire wedding inside or outside. You should just be careful that it
doesn’t get too hot. If you have an outdoor ceremony, consider giving
your guests water bottles or fans to help them cool off.

Fall: The colors of the leaves are changing and it makes a beautiful

backdrop for a wedding ceremony. The weather is cooler, especially
when the sun sets, so many couples decide to have the reception
indoors.

Winter: Weddings during the winter season can be unpredictable

but they can be really fun! It is impossible to predict the weather as
you are planning. It can be freezing cold and have a couple of feet
of snow on the roads. Many flowers are going to be more expensive
because they will be out of season. On the other hand, you can really
dress up the “winter” or “holiday” theme and have an absolutely
beautiful wedding! You could use white, silver, and blue color theme
with snowflakes, white branches, and ice crystals.

92 it’s about details - issue 3

date yet?
by Amanda Walls of
Cherishable Weddings & Events

After you determined which season you want to
have your wedding, look at dates to rule out!
Make a list of people that must be at your
wedding. This includes people such as you, your
fiancé, your parents and your siblings. Check your
calendars for any dates that are already planned such as
vacations and events.

Culture or Superstitions.

Are there any dates
that are bad luck to you or your fiancés cultures? Are
you superstitious and believe that some dates are
unlucky? Well, rule them out! Some of these dates
include Friday the 13th, the ides of March (March
15th), September 11, April fool’s day. Some religions
discourage against some days. For example, if you are
Jewish, it is unlucky to marry on Friday evenings or
Saturdays before sunset.

Holidays. Some people may think it is convenient
to have a wedding on a holiday such as Memorial Day
because a lot of your guests will already be off of work.
The problem is that many families take this time to
go on vacation, hotels are more expensive, and traffic
volume increases tremendously. These holidays include Christmas, New Years, Martin Luther King Day,
Thanksgiving, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Chinese
New Year, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Easter, Hanukah,
and Kwanzaa. This is not a complete list so make sure
that you check with your family’s religions and holiday
schedules.
Sporting Events. Avoiding major sporting events

if you can. Your guests probably will not skip your
wedding to be at a game, but they may have their phone
out during the entire reception in order to get updates.
These events could also be in your city so there will be
a lot of traffic back-ups. These dates include the Super
Bowl, World Series, March Madness Final Four, the
Olympics and the World Cup.

Local events and parades. Does your

community have any parades, festivals, or any other
event that is extremely popular and will cause major
traffic congestions? Make sure you keep all of these in
mind when planning your wedding. You don’t want to
have a ceremony that overlooks a carnival Ferris Wheel
(unless your wedding is carnival themed!) You also
don’t want your guests to be late because many of the
roads were closed due to a parade.

Getting
organized!
by Amanda Walls of
Cherishable Weddings & Events

Y

ou go to a bridal show and get tons of
business cards and brochures, so you
throw them in a pile to look at later.
You search the internet and write down notes
about who you want to call and throw those
notes into another pile to look at later. You
finally call someone to make an appointment,
sign a contract, and throw that contract into
another pile! You see a gorgeous wedding
in a magazine and so you tear out the page
and throw in another pile. Does this sound
familiar? Needless to say, this is a never ending cycle and those piles will never be looked
at again! You have tons of paper work, notes,
contracts, and lists and don’t know what to do
with it all! Does this sound familiar?
If you want to hire a wedding planner, do that
first! Many planners will have fabulous tips
on how to get organized. They already know
many vendors in your area, so you won’t have
to do as much research. Less research means
fewer piles to look at! Some of them will keep
and compile all of your information and give
you a customized timeline.
If you are going to plan the wedding yourself, make a filing system. If you like to write
everything out by hand, purchase either an
accordion file or a binder. If you like to keep
everything online, set up a folder dedicated
to your wedding planning. No matter what
system you decide is best for you, make
subcategories.

94 it’s about details - issue 3

Vendor category
(caterer, photographer, videographer, baker,
venue, hair stylist, makeup artist, attire, ect)
This is where you will keep your contracts and
notes about each vendor.

Budget tracking
This is where you will keep all of your
receipts, payment due dates, and a spreadsheet that summarizes all of your purchases.

Inspirations and notes
This is where you will put any magazine clippings, fabric swatches, and any other miscellaneous inspirations.

Guest list and
accommodations
Keep one folder for your guest list and contact
information, RSVPs, gifts received, and any
guest accommodations for out of town guests.

After you have this system set up, create a
timeline and use this timeline as a
guideline not as a deadline! Do not stress
out if you should have a venue by 11
months before your wedding date and you
don’t have one until 10 months before the
date.

#1 You cannot look at
them all
There will always be another photographer
and another caterer to look at.

When you go to interview vendors, don’t
meet with too many. If you find a vendor
that you like and that is within your
budget, stop looking at other vendors. I say
this for a couple of reasons.

#2 They can
get booked by
someone else

You also do not want to wait too long to
sign a contract with vendors that you like
because you do not wait that date to be
booked by another couple. Vendors
will not hold a date unless they
have a signed contract
from you.
After each meeting, write down some
key points and notes and put them in
your filing system. Do not wait until
later, because it probably won’t get
done. When you sign a contract, put
them in the folder or scan them into
After meeting with a dozen photographers, you will start the computer.

#3 It will be
confusing and you
will have too much
information

to get them all confused and they will all start to blend
together. Every vendor will also have different systems,
packages, styles, prices, and personalities. At first you
may think that it would be easy to keep track of
them all, but if you meet with just vendors
from 6 different vendor categories, that is
24 meetings! That is a lot of information to keep organized.

If you put all of your
paperwork and contracts in
your system as soon as you get
them throughout the whole
planning process, you are sure
to clean up all of those messy
“I’ll get to them later” piles.
issue 3 - it’s about details 95

real weddings & engagements

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 97

Heidi & Nathan

made u look photography

“I’ll never forget that
day, it was the
craziest/silliest day ever,
we laughed the whole
night.”

98 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 99

100 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

H

eidi and Nathan met in Tehachapi. They hung out with the same friends at different
times and never really talked to each other. Heidi had liked Nathan for a long time and
he never even knew she existed. They both ended up going to a high school “pimp and
hoe” party and everyone was dressed up except for them. Heidi and Nathan eventually started
talking about music, movies, and hung out the entire night. They didn’t see each other for about
3 weeks and finally met up at a local music show. After that, Heidi and Nathan were inseparable.
He would surprise her at work by coming to the window where she made pizza. He would smile,
blow kisses, and it made her so nervous and embarrassed. Nathan called Heidi his, “Pretty
pepperoni” because when she got off work she always smelled like pizza. Their first real date was
at a tiny burrito stand. Heidi was so nervous she couldn’t even eat. They used to ditch class and
watch movies together.
Dec 27 was a normal day just like any other. Heidi and Nathan both got home from work and
Nathan said, “Let’s go to Bill Lees” (their favorite Chinese spot, best vegetarian menu ever!).
After dinner, Nathan started acting weird. He wanted to do something; he wasn’t ready to go
home. He told Heidi, “Let’s go to the park” and Heidi’s response was, “seriously? It’s the end of
December and 9 at night.” Nathan responded, “oh yeah, you’re right. We can go bowling? Take a
walk?” Nathan just kept throwing out random ideas. They ended up at fresh and easy, bought a
bottle of wine, a tub of frozen yogurt, and headed home to watch a movie.

issue 3 - it’s about details 101

When they got home Nathan put in the movie Elizabethtown. Heidi looked at him and said,
“What the heck? You hate this movie.” Nathan tried to act like he didn't hate it and then he told
Heidi that he needed to tell her something. Heidi got nervous, “What? What happened? Am I
going to be mad?” Nathan just kept laughing. Nathan then got on his knee and asked Heidi to
marry him. It was the most happiest and awkward moment ever. The DVD menu from
Elizabethtown kept replaying itself in the background so the theme song from the show OC kept
coming on. It was like they had just met for the first time. They laughed and cried. He also left
his keys in the door he was so nervous. Afterwards, he said he had no idea how he was going to
propose that's why it took him so long and why he kept throwing out ideas to do something after
dinner. He finally decided he wanted it to be at home with just the two of them and their cat.
Heidi said, “I'll never forget that day, it was the craziest/silliest day ever, we laughed the whole
night.” Heidi and Nathan never ended up watching Elizabeth town. Nathan finally admitted to
just putting the movie in for Heidi, because he knew she liked it.

102 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 103

John & Kelly

B

ack in June 2010, Kelly was
in a terrible car accident
and unable to leave the
house due to her injury. She
decided to try out Plenty Of
Fish to meet a few people, not
looking for anything more than
something platonic. Not even a
day after first signing up, John
contacted Kelly. They sent each
other a few back and forth messages on Facebook and eventually
exchanged phone numbers.
Nervous to meet someone new,
Kelly didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t agree to a real date
with him until nearly a month
later. That date was the beginning of the rest of their lives; they
were inseparable. John stuck by
Kelly when she needed him most
to attend doctors appointments
and other personal errands, as
she was unable to drive due to the
accident.

While at the shore one day, Kelly received the terrible news that her grandma had passed.
Although John had never met her family, he offered to be there for her at the funeral. That day
reminds bittersweet to Kelly; it was one of the worst days of her life because she lost someone so
important to her but at the same time she felt as though
she had gained someone amazing, too.
After three months of dating, John proposed.
They were outside of the mall, still in his
truck. It was nothing fancy but Kelly
didn’t care – she loved him.
The wedding is set to be in June 2012.

t all started in a magical place. No, really…
it did.”In November 2008, Amanda and her
friend Robin were off to meet a friend of
theirs as well as a few other people they hadn’t yet
met, at Buzz Lightyear. Of course, they had some
difficulty finding the small group considering the
large crowds at Disney World but the group
eventually met up and stood together as they
watched Wishes.
The group spent the rest of the week hanging out
and lost touch after the magical week in Disney
ended. It wasn’t until a few months later that John
and Amanda met back up, oddly enough in New
Jersey.

The Proposal-

Fast forwarding, John, Amanda, and her parents
were enjoying a week-long stay at Disney (yup,
they ended up back in Disney). Just minutes
before Illuminations was to begin at World Showcase Lagoon, John convinced Amanda to give
up her amazing spot and leave with him to go to
Japan.
Earlier that day, Amanda had seen the gorgeous
pearls but had chosen not to get one. Knowing
how much she loved it, John brought her back and
told her to choose her pearl – not taking “no” for
an answer. Once the ring setting
was chosen, they headed back to
Illuminations, waiting for the
ring to be ready.
After the show was over, they
headed back over to pick up the
newly set ring. John was advised
not to use the ring right away to
keep the ring safe, but he didn’t
care. There, right in the middle
of the park, he got down on one
knee and proposed.

114 it’s about details - issue 3

issue 3 - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details 115

Laughter filled the church, thanks to Father John and his vibrant personality. After
the ceremony, Amanda planned on taking the bridal party over to the local garden
for pictures. Just as we were about to step outside, raindrops starting to fall. Although
disappointed, she kept her smile and was fine with having pictures taken only in the
church.
John and Amanda were totally laid back from the very beginning of their planning, all
the way through the reception. Any time something went wrong during the wedding,
they both shrugged it off, saying that it was more important to enjoy the day and not
waste if by being mad about the little things.
As a DJ himself (and owner of Trifecta), John couldn’t help but take over a bit during his own reception. Everyone couldn’t help but get up and dance – even grandma
joined in for a while! Although the day is now a memory, each guest still continues to
talk about the awesome and memorable night.

Step 1: Purchase, wash, and dry all of your mason jars.
Step 2: Take the card stock and cut out tags in your desired shape.
Step 3: Take the single hole punch and punch a hole at the end of each
tag.
Step 4: Take the sharpie and write down your guests names and the
table number that they are assigned to.
Step 5: Tie a piece of ribbon on each tag, through the punch hole, and
tie it around the mason jar.
Step 6: Fill the mason jars with your desired drink a few days before
your wedding day. (Make sure you put the lids on!)
Guests will love, and be surpirsed by, these untraditional escort cards!
118 it’s about details - issue 3

professional spotlight

120 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

it’s about details: What made you want to become a photographer?
Frozen Moments Growing up, I was constantly told that I needed to decide what I career path I wanted
to take. After hearing it so often from so many people, I started to become incredibly
Portraits:
frustrating as I tried to make the ‘right’ decision. To help myself de-stress, I picked up
a camera and shot anything and everything. For those moments, I forgot everything
and focused just what I saw through my viewfinder. One day, I literally woke up and
realized that this entire time I knew what my career was supposed to be. It was the
same thing I ran to so often…photography.

it’s about details:
Frozen Moments
Portraits:

How long have you been a photographer?
I started photographing professionally about 3.5 years ago at a family studio. Soon
after, I decided to dip my toes into weddings. Ironically, I had never attended a
wedding before so it was entirely new territory. I began by seeking experienced
photographers and absorbing any knowledge they were kind enough to offer me.
After second shooting a few weddings, I was ready to move forward on my own.

I started out working for another company. Their studio was too much like an
assembly line. Everyone’s pictures looked the same; there was just no personality in it.
I wanted to be able to deliver my vision of what photography should be.

What do you love most about your business?
I love the relationships! Communication is a huge factor with me. I don’t ever want
one of my brides wondering where I am or if I’ve disappeared, so I’m always sending
an email here and there to see how the planning is going. I have a few brides now that
have been sending me pictures as they purchase things for the wedding. I just love
how excited they are to tell me these things.
I keep in touch with most of my past clients. We chat now and then. I wouldn’t trade
these relationships for anything.

What are all the services you offer?
Wedding photography and engagement sessions.

Tell us anything else you would like us and our readers to know about
your business.
While the bride and groom are the main focus of the day, there is so much more to
it than that. There are the details and the guests that add to the experience and truly
make the day memorable. I live to capture the emotion; nervousness, laughter, tears.
I don’t want to be a stranger with a camera in your face. I want to get to know your
personality, get to know each other. If you aren’t comfortable, it’s definitely going to
show in the pictures.
To truly capture ambiance of the day, I am what you could refer to as a camouflage
photographer. That meaning, I do whatever it takes to photograph every moment
without being seen. It is incredible to see the reaction the couple has when they view
images that they didn’t even know were taken.

You can find more information about Frozen Moments
Portraits at www.frozenmomentsportraits.com or you can
call 570-872-6401.

To enter to win one of these three prizes simply
go to www.itsaboutdetails.com/giveaways.
Fill out the entry form and submit. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s it!
**Rules and restristions apply. See wedsite for details.

124 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about details - issue 3

Personalized Memorial Pillar Candle
As a special remembrance of those who could
not be with you on your special day, light this
Personalized Memorial candle in there honor.
Candle is available in white or ivory, print is
black only.

Crystalline Quartz Sand
Use extra fine decorative sand with our Unity
Sand Ceremony or our Family Sand Ceremony vases. This sand is also suitable for other
decorating projects such as table centerpieces
with candles, favors with a beach theme such
as “message in a bottle” or anything else that
needs a little “flourish of sand”.
100% Pashmina Scarf
Worn over the shoulders with a dress or with
your favorite t-shirt and jeans, this fine-quality
Pashmina scarf is a chic fashion accessory and
a great addition to any gal’s closet. Add an embroidered initial in an intricate vine motif to
create the perfect Bridesmaid gift that can be
enjoyed again and again. Single ply, with tasseled ends. Hand wash in cold water.
issue 3 - it’s about details 125

car wheel holder and pen desk set - great for
groomsmen or for that special man in your life
www.memorablecelebrations.weddingstar.com

Thank you for taking the time to
read our online magazine.
Make sure you visit our website for more
details like:
behnd the scnens
extra articles & photos that you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find in the magazine
planning tips & tools
our blog
.......................and so much more!